Climate-related environmental change and associated disasters are
affecting and transforming livelihoods in the Mekong Delta and
figure among the most serious challenges faced by the region, an
interagency meeting heard this week.

On 4-5 June 2012, IOM, UNDP and Can Tho University hosted a
workshop on climate change adaptation and migration in the Mekong
Delta at Can Tho University.  

It brought together climate change experts, researchers, local
and international NGOs, potential donors, and authorities from
climate change affected Mekong Delta provinces. The main focus was
on the connection between climate change and migration and how this
affects community resilience, resettlement and
livelihoods.  

The vulnerabilities of the region to climate change, coupled
with opportunities created by rapid economic growth in Viet Nam,
have led to increased and continuing migration towards industrial
and commercial hubs.  

Speaking at the meeting, IOM’s Chief of Mission in Viet
Nam, Florian Forster noted that the consequences of climate change
on human mobility need to be further assessed and
researched.  

“Migration is still largely perceived as a negative
consequence of environmental change, but there is growing evidence
to suggest that well planned migration is a viable adaptation
strategy, as it can enhance the resilience of individuals and
communities,” he said.  

The workshop examined the links between climate change,
environmental degradation and migration, providing participants
with insights into climate change adaptation in the Mekong Delta
and migration as a possible adaptation strategy. 

For more information, please contact

Florian Forster

IOM Viet Nam

Email: "mailto:fforster@iom.int">fforster@iom.int

Tel: +84 9 03450196